Relocation To Turkey
Relocation Guide
In most areas of Turkey, finding accommodation to rent or buy isn't difficult,
providing your requirements aren't too unusual. Accommodation accounts
for around 25 per cent of the average Turkish family's budget, but can
be more in the major cities. Property prices and rents in Turkey vary considerably
depending on the region and city.
It is very practical to have a street map of the area where you
are going to live. Check for out the local tourist information
office free copies. Even after you have found your home, you will
find a street map invaluable for getting around.
Resident's Visas
If you are relocating to Turkey for more than six months then you are well
advised to apply to the Turkish Government Office for a resident's visa.
They will issue a document for you to present to the police nearest your
new home who will process the application.
Rent (Kiralik) or buy (Satilik)
If you're planning to stay in Turkey for a year only then renting is usually
the best solution since the costs associated with purchasing a house can
be 10% of its value. However, with the upsurge in the popularity of Turkey
as a holiday destination buying is a safe and good investment.
Furnished or Unfurnished
Most rental properties in Turkey are let unfurnished, particularly for lets
longer than one year. Furnished properties are difficult to find and generally
poorly equipped. Note that "unfurnished" doesn't simply mean "without
furniture" in Turkey. An unfurnished property is usually an "empty
shell" with no light fixtures, curtain rods or even a television aerial.
There's also no cooker, refrigerator or dishwasher and there may even be
no kitchen units, carpets or kitchen sink! Always ask before viewing as you
may save yourself a wasted trip. If the previous tenant has fitted items
such as carpets and kitchen cupboards, he may ask you to reimburse him for
the cost. You should be prepared to negotiate the price and make sure that
you receive value for money.
Areas
If you want to live in an area where there are many international residents
it is best to check out where the schools and hospitals are. Contact your
embassy or international social organizations and ask the international residents
themselves if you really want to live in a colony of your own fellow citizens.
Types of housing
Many Turkish families live in communal property developments where rents are
lower than in the town centers. Rents are calculated according to the number
of bedrooms and the floor area (in square meters). Generally the higher an
apartment is in a block, the more expensive it is (you pay for the view,
the extra light, the absence of street noise, increased security and the
rarified air). However, if a block doesn't have a lift, apartments on lower
floors may be the most expensive.
In case of a dispute with the landlord
If you have a complaint regarding a long-term rental, you should report it
to the local municipal office (Kaymakamlik). If they're unable to help you,
they will direct you to the office where you can make a formal complaint.
Depending on the type of dispute you may be directed towards a solicitor.
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